Common Types of Air Conditioners
By knowing which type of air conditioner you have, you'll feel more empowered in your contractor search. Madison HVAC contractors have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can tailor their skills to your needs.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name suggests, portable air conditioner systems don't require permanent installation or ductwork. Instead, they remove hot air through an exhaust hose connected to a window or nearby vent. They're preferred for apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split AC units have an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer higher energy efficiency, individual room temperature control, and flexible installation options.
- Central AC: These are the most common residential AC systems, offering consistent, precise temperature control. They feature a central unit that cools and purifies outside air and sends it through ducts to various rooms in your home.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They provide silent operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Madison apartments, condos, and townhomes. These compact, affordable units are designed for cooling single rooms and small spaces, and they fit snugly in a window frame or dedicated wall slot. Many window-mounted air conditioner users install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
How to Choose Your Madison AC Repair Service
With Madison's scorching heat, AC problems are critical to fix for your safety and comfort. However, don't rush to sign a contract until you're sure a company is the best fit for you. We recommend following these steps in your research.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
Alabama has a dedicated Board of Heating, Air Conditioning, & Refrigeration Contractors that issues licenses and enforces regulations. To get a heating/air conditioning or refrigeration contractor license, a businessowner must pass an exam, pay an annual fee, register their company, and get at least a $15,000 performance bond. The state has a license reciprocity agreement with Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, South Carolina, and West Virginia, but each businessowner must take four hours of continuing education in Alabama per year to stay in active standing.
You should also verify a company has sufficient liability coverage, even if your state doesn't require it. Choosing an insured company will protect you if mishaps arise during work.
Read Customer Reviews
Find customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB recognizes businesses that handle complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's normal for even the best AC repair providers to have both positive and negative reviews. Read each one carefully, and avoid a company if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We recommend getting at least three different estimates to find the best cost and services. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about emergency repair availability, manufacturer warranties, installer guarantees and permitting fees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Madison
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Madison?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $63–$167 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $83–$209 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,251–$3,754 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,585 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
What month is best for getting an air conditioner replaced?
What industry certifications should I look for when researching Madison AC repair companies?
My HVAC problem is urgent. How quickly could a company respond?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
